Report: Arsenal in talks as striker prefers Real Madrid over Premier League move | OneFootball

Viktor Gyokeres Eyes Real Madrid Move Despite Arsenal Talks

European Goal Machine Turns Heads

Viktor Gyokeres is not a household name yet, but his goal tally suggests that could change imminently. The 26-year-old Swedish international is enjoying a phenomenal season at Sporting CP, having notched 48 goals and 12 assists in just 47 appearances. These are numbers that echo through Europe’s top scouting rooms like a thunderclap.

Sporting boss Rui Borges didn’t hold back in his praise, describing Gyokeres as “an extraordinary striker” and “the best in the league.” When managers speak in such absolutes, clubs tend to listen. Arsenal, always in search of a prolific number nine, are said to have opened talks with the striker’s camp. The Gunners’ Sporting Director Andrea Berta is believed to be a long-time admirer.

But there’s a twist in the tale – and it has a distinctly Galáctico tint.

Real Madrid Enters the Frame

According to Defensa Central, Gyokeres’s representatives have already contacted Real Madrid about a summer transfer, and crucially, this was “at the express request” of the player himself. The news has “caused some surprise” in Madrid’s hierarchy, but it’s a testament to the ambition – or perhaps the fantasy – of a striker determined to test himself among football’s elite.

However, despite the contact, Madrid have responded with a polite shake of the head. President Florentino Pérez reportedly holds Gyokeres in high regard, but is unwilling to meet Sporting CP’s €100 million (£85.5 million) valuation. Given that Los Blancos already boast an embarrassment of attacking riches – including Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and rising prodigy Endrick – the logic of signing another forward becomes harder to justify.

Arsenal’s Striker Chase Continues

For Arsenal, this development is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it reflects the quality of their transfer targets. On the other, they may find themselves outbid, or outshone, in the minds of players chasing silverware and spotlight.

It also lays bare a broader issue for Arsenal. Despite regular Champions League qualification under Mikel Arteta and a squad teeming with promise, they remain second-choice for many elite talents when clubs like Real Madrid loom into view. Arsenal can offer a platform, a project, and prestige – but not quite the aura of Madrid.

Photo: IMAGO

Should Gyokeres opt for another destination, it may be a reminder that Arsenal’s climb back to the top isn’t complete yet. Attracting the best still requires either paying over the odds or outperforming the traditional elite. As it stands, they may have to return to the striker shortlist once again.

Financials and Fantasy: A Price Too High?

Gyokeres’s €100m price tag poses a dilemma, not just for Madrid, but for any suitor. Is he a transformative striker, or a poacher made prolific in a system tailored to his strengths in Portugal? The gap between Liga Portugal and the Premier League or La Liga can be stark.

Still, the stats are hard to ignore. In total, Gyokeres has amassed 91 goals and 27 assists in 97 appearances for Sporting – an absurd return by any metric. Yet Real Madrid’s restraint might indicate that while his ceiling is high, their standards are higher still.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal supporter’s point of view, this report is both frustrating and familiar. Another transfer window, another star who seems enamoured with the Bernabeu dream. It’s not that Arsenal aren’t ambitious – they’ve shown their intent under Arteta – but when you’re up against Madrid, history and glamour often tip the scales.

That said, there’s no need to panic. Gyokeres looks impressive, but €100m is a massive gamble for a player unproven at the very top level. Arsenal have been linked with younger, potentially more well-rounded options like Benjamin Sesko or Liam Delap – players who might suit Arteta’s style better in the long run.

Also, Arsenal fans might feel some quiet satisfaction that their club are in these conversations at all. Competing with Madrid and Chelsea for elite players signals clear progress. The key now is to maintain that presence and pull off a few key signings who choose the Emirates over the spotlight. If Gyokeres wants to be a Galáctico, fair play – but Arsenal’s rise doesn’t hinge on one forward alone.